Keeping Maple Running with Fiber Internet

How fiber internet helps Branon Family Maple Orchards make the most of a short Vermont season

In Vermont’s maple industry, timing isn’t just important – it’s everything.

For producers like Branon Family Maple Orchards in Fairfield, an entire year depends on a short, unpredictable window each spring when sap flows. That window can last only a few weeks. When something goes wrong, there’s no opportunity to make it up later.

“We basically make our livelihood in about 30 days of sap running,” says Evan Branon. “That’s the window for the entire year.”

Today, the family manages more than 100,000 taps across over 4,000 acres. The scale is significant, and so is the need to stay connected when it matters most.

From Tradition to Scale

Like many Vermont maple producers, the Branons grew gradually as maple replaced dairy as their primary livelihood. What began as a hands-on operation has expanded into a system spread across miles of woods.

“We started with horses, buckets, and wood-fired evaporators,” says Cecile Branon. “It was all hands-on.”

Managing that scale during a short and variable season requires constant visibility and fast response when something goes wrong.

Why Fiber Internet Matters

As operations expanded, the Branons added sensors, cameras, and automated systems to monitor sap flow, vacuum pressure, and pump stations throughout the sugarbush. Equipment in the sugarhouse can now be monitored and adjusted remotely.

But the technology only works if the connection does.

“Our connection would be up for a minute and down for five,” says Evan Branon. “You didn’t know if there was actually a problem or if you just lost connection.”

In a season where minutes matter, that uncertainty adds up quickly.

That changed when fiber internet became available locally through Fidium.

Today, fiber connects the sugarhouse and pump stations into one coordinated system.

“I’ve got a big screen with probably about 30 cameras showing everything all the time,” says Kyle Branon. “If something goes wrong, we catch it much quicker instead of finding it hours later.”

The difference isn’t just speed – it’s reliability when every hour counts.

Making the Most of a Short Season

The work hasn’t changed. The weather is still unpredictable. The season is still short.

What has changed is how the family manages that time.

“Before, we had to constantly be moving,” says Evan. “Now I can remotely check the cameras, check the pumps, check the releases, and still have dinner with the family.”

Even small efficiencies make a difference.

“During sugaring,” adds Kyle, “even an extra hour of sleep is much appreciated.”

With reliable internet service, the Branons can respond faster, reduce unnecessary travel, and stay focused on keeping the sap moving.

Keeping Maple Running

At Branon Family Maple Orchards, fiber hasn’t changed the tradition of maple sugaring.

It’s made it possible to keep that tradition running – right along with the sap.